If you want to know which are the best theme parks at Universal Orlando and their best attractions, you’re in the right place. This article has all the information you need: a map to get to the attractions easily; ticket information, hours of operation, waiting times; and, last but not least, the answer to the most frequently asked questions about this topic. Read on and learn more about this amazing Florida resort.
Discover the best parks at Universal Studios Orlando and the most outstanding attractions
Although it is commonly known as Universal Studios Orlando, the full name of this huge complex is Universal Orlando Resort. It currently has 8 hotels, 2 theme parks, and 1 water park. Below, you will find a brief summary of each park, along with a list and description of each of its main attractions.
Universal Studios Florida
This is the main theme park of the Universal Orlando Resort complex and one of the best amusement parks in Orlando. Universal Studios Florida offers spectacular attractions and environments inspired by different cinematic universes such as Transformers, Fast and Furious, and Harry Potter. There are also spots for iconic animated franchises such as The Simpsons and Despicable Me.
Harry Potter and the escape from Gringotts
At the Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts attraction, you will enter the iconic wizarding bank, where you can admire every little detail, and then descend on a thrilling indoor roller coaster ride. Ride the rails that run through subway caverns while an epic battle with spells and a colossal fire-breathing dragon unfolds around you. Certainly one of the best attractions at Universal Studios Orlando.
The Simpsons Ride
Fans of the most famous yellow family on TV will have an exciting experience full of references and iconic characters in this incredible motion simulator with 3-D elements, The Simpsons Ride. Hop on and experience the best adventures on the way to Krustyland, you will see Bart, Lisa, Marge, little Maggie, and Homer exclaiming his signature D’oh!
Revenge of the Mummy
Dare to explore the depths of Imothep’s tomb as he returns as a terrifying mummy. Take a ride on The Revenge of the Mummy, an indoor roller coaster that will take you at full speed through an interior of dark abysses, and hieroglyphic passageways, while being chased by the ferocious mummy.
Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Universal’s Islands of Adventure is the second theme park built in the Universal complex and also features different attractions based on movies and cinematic universes such as Jurassic World, Marvel Superheroes, or Dr. Seuss. This park gives priority to high-thrill rides, mainly roller coasters, so it’s the perfect place for adrenaline lovers.
The Incredible Hulk Coaster
Hop on this roller coaster and unleash the green giant in you: in The Incredible Hulk Coaster, you will accelerate up to 108 kilometers in a matter of seconds, due to an explosion with gamma rays. You will face amazing inversions and a spectacular zero-gravity spin. The ride, as furious as the Hulk, is one of the most popular attractions at Universal Studios Orlando.
The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
Join the friendly neighbor Spider-Man, to save the Statue of Liberty in The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man. In this attraction with 3D elements and simulated movement, you will swing through the city and jump between skyscrapers. Keep an eye out for some of Marvel’s most iconic heroes and villains.
Jurassic World Velocicoaster
Considered the wildest roller coaster in the complex, on the Jurassic World Coaster you will experience an adrenaline-filled ride where you will enter the velociraptors’ terrain to join them on a hunting session. Run at full speed through the jungle and mountains with this predator.
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is the newest attraction of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Hop on an enchanted motorcycle and fly over the legendary Forbidden Forest, but beware of minotaurs. Enjoy seeing the magical creatures on this roller coaster, which is over a mile long and is the longest in Florida.
Universal’s Volcano Bay
This water park is inspired by the islands of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you are looking for relaxation or fun, Universal’s Volcano Bay will be an excellent choice for you. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon surrounding the park’s central volcano, called Krakatau. There are multiple slides and entertaining attractions where you can splash all you want.
Krakatau Aqua Coaster
In the Krakatau Aqua Coaster, you’ll hop on a canoe with three other people and embark on a thrilling descent through the heart of the volcano. Cut through the mist, face the darkness, and conquer the final waterfall. Enjoy all the movement, adrenaline, and fun of this aquatic adventure. You definitely can’t miss this attraction on your visit to Universal Studios Orlando.
Ko’okiri Body Plunge
Look adrenaline in the eye and slide down the Ko’okiri Body Plunge, a 70-degree waterslide that is approximately 36 meters long. This near-vertical attraction, suitable only for the bravest, ends with a big splash in the pool.
Ohyah & Ohno Drop Slide
This pair of wild slides, Ohyah & Ohno Drop Slide, will make you scream as you slide down their twists and turns and end your ride with a wild splash, dropping you from different heights (4 and 6 feet high, respectively) into a pool. A challenge for good swimmers and adrenaline lovers.
Map of the best attractions in Universal Studios Orlando
Everything you need to know about the best parks at Universal Orlando Resort
Here are some tips you should keep in mind if you’re planning a visit to Universal Studios Orlando, Florida.
- Admission tickets to the parks can be purchased directly at the resort’s website. Keep in mind that the price of Universal Orlando tickets varies per day and you can buy them for multiple days and to enter different parks. Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure tickets have similar costs, while Universal’s Volcano Bay tickets are cheaper.
- The Universal Express service allows you to avoid long lines at the attractions, but it is not included in the ticket, therefore you need to purchase it additionally. The price also varies depending on whether you want to use it in one or several parks. In Volcano Bay Park, this service is replaced by the Tapu Tapu system.
- In order to ride the “Hogwarts Express” attraction, you must have a Park-to-Park ticket, since this attraction moves between Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
- If you have the opportunity to purchase, before arriving or during your stay in the park, one of Harry Potter’s interactive wands, keep an eye out for the magic symbols within the parks. When you spot one, you can wave your wand and cast a spell to provoke various reactions and environmental or animatronic movements.
- Please note that the hours of operation are different for each park. They usually open at 9:00 am, but the closing times of each park vary depending on the season and for other reasons. Universal’s Volcano Bay usually closes earlier than the other two. Check the resort’s website to have all the updated information.
- All attractions have minimum and maximum height and weight requirements. Most of them are suitable for both adults and children; however, you should check them out before waiting in line, to avoid wasting time.
- There are specific rules about taking your own food to the parks, but the most relevant is that it is forbidden to bring food that requires heating or refrigeration, as well as alcohol containers, glass containers, and coolers. You can enter with food required for medical or nutritional reasons, baby formula and you can also bring your own bottled water, but only 2 liters maximum.
Frequently Asked Questions about Universal Studios Orlando
Where can I stay at Universal Orlando?
Universal Studios Resort has eight hotels with different categories and amenities so you can stay close to your favorite attractions. If you want our recommendations, you should check the Viajemos website to get amazing deals on accommodations.
What is the best season to visit Universal Orlando?
The best season to visit this park complex is between March and June because the weather is ideal (low rainfall and nice temperatures) and the tourist influx is not that high.
Which is the best Universal Orlando theme park?
According to ratings and reviews, Universal Studios Florida is the best park in the whole complex. Besides having the best Harry Potter-themed space, it also has tons of iconic and amusing attractions. However, reviews also point out that if you are looking for adrenaline and thrilling roller coasters, then you should visit Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
What to see at Universal Studios?
The huge Universal Studios complex is one of the most famous places in Florida. Make sure to visit and enjoy some of the best amusement parks in Orlando. Ride adrenaline-pumping roller coasters and motion simulators that honor some of the most famous movie and television franchises. Here, you can also explore interactive spaces that will amaze you with their decor and immerse you in fantasy, such as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you can even visit wand stores and make things move just by conjuring a spell.
We hope this article helps you make the most of your visit to Universal Orlando. Learn more about other incredible destinations on our blog. Let’s travel together and discover the world.
